“Support” and “maintenance” are nebulous terms, but when it comes to these two elements, retailers need to be very clear about what they’re getting from their POS systems vendor.

On the support side, it’s essential to ensure not only that you have access to help 24/7 and 365 days a year, but also to make certain that there is more than one way to get that help. A telephone number to call no matter what the hour is a start. However, it’s not enough. A reputable vendor also provides its retailer customers with an email address. Additional downloadable material should also be available—for instance, software patches, drivers and demos, along with manuals and any ancillary programs.

As for the POS maintenance contract, be certain to find out exactly what your money gets you—there should be no hidden fees or “extras” to pay for after the contract has been signed. For best results, ascertain that the fee is “per seat”. Ask what that fee covers and for what duration. When in doubt, consult a salesperson prior to signing on the dotted line to obtain expert advice as to which maintenance plan best suits your needs.

pcAmerica offers comprehensive POS maintenance agreements, and its staff stand ready to help you pick the one that will fulfill your requirements. Contact pcAmerica for more information.